Coastal flooding possible on Saturday; N.C. Highway 12 remains open as of Saturday morning

While coastal flooding and ocean overwash remain a possibility on Saturday, N.C. Highway 12 was reportedly open and passable throughout Hatteras and Ocracoke islands, although minor standing water and sand were reported on multiple locations along the roadway, and particularly on Pea Island north of Rodanthe.

NCDOT reported some mild to moderate overwash on N.C Highway 12 during the overnight high tide, but crews were able to clear it quickly. Travelers are advised to drive with caution, and can check https://drivenc.gov/ for updates on road conditions.

Per a Saturday morning update, ferry operations from Hatteras and Ocracoke Island remain suspended. The N.C. Ferry System reported that they will continue to assess the situation, and travelers can call 252-996-6000 for ferry updates.

A Coastal Flood Warning from Cape Hatteras to Duck is in effect until 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, per a recent update from the National Weather Service (NWS). Along the oceanside, there is the potential for 2-4 feet of water above normally dry ground, which could impact N.C. Highway 12. The most likely areas for overwash are the northeast-facing beaches from Cape Hatteras to the northern Outer Banks, although overwash may also occur in vulnerable areas from Frisco to Ocracoke Island.

The most likely timing of ocean overwash is around high tide, and the next high tide is approximately 1:00 p.m. on Saturday.

6 to 14-foot waves in the surf zone through Sunday will lead to dangerous surf and beach erosion, and wind gusts up to 55 mph are also possible through the weekend as well.  A High Surf Advisory and Wind Advisory remain in effect, and will continue through the weekend.

For more information on the local forecast, visit www.weather.gov/mhx for weather information, or the National Weather Service office in Newport / Morehead City’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NWSMoreheadCity/.